Tulane Researchers Uncover Promising New Approach to Treat Deadly Lung Disease IPF

Tulane University scientists have uncovered a promising new approach to treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive and currently incurable lung disease that impacts more than 3 million people worldwide. The disease causes severe lung scarring and makes breathing increasingly difficult — and about half of those diagnosed die within three years.

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers found that an FDA-approved cancer drug, ipilimumab, may help the immune system clear out senescent (damaged, non-functioning) cells that drive the scarring process in IPF. The discovery could lead to a new class of treatments that re-energize the body’s natural defenses rather than relying on drugs that only slow the disease.

The researchers believe that this approach could also apply to other aging-related diseases where senescent cells accumulate, such as Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular disease. The next step: more research to explore safety and dosage for future clinical trials.

Read the full story to learn more about this groundbreaking discovery.